Digestive Issues and Drug Abuse

Drug abuse is a serious issue, not only because it can harm a person’s physical wellbeing, but also because it can negatively impact physical health as well. It is impossible to abuse drugs such as stimulants, opiates and depressants without experiencing a handful of side effects. In many cases, the side effects associated with drug abuse can be deadly. However, the majority of them are not deadly; rather, they cause severe discomfort which in turn can cause an increase in drug abuse. For many, digestive issues are a main concern when it comes to drug abuse.

Digestive Issues and Drug Abuse

Digestive issues can be incredibly uncomfortable and upsetting, especially if they are continuous and persistent. Those who abuse drugs of all kinds are bound to run into digestive troubles. Some of the most common drugs and their associated digestive side effects include the following:

Opiates – Opiates, such as heroin and painkillers, can cause a variety of digestive issues during use, including constipation that can be highly uncomfortable. It’s during withdrawal that these issues are most prominent, and cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are inevitable.

Stimulants – Using stimulants, such as Adderall or Ritalin, can cause a decrease in appetite, which in many cases can lead to digestive issues as nutrients are not being consumed. On the other hand, however, those who abuse stimulants can also experience extreme excitement to the point where they begin experiencing stomachaches and heartburn as a result of the hype.

Depressants – The most common depressant in the world is alcohol, and the continued use of this substance when combined with drug such as prescription pills will lead to digestive issues, such as heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.

All drugs carry a potential for the development of digestive issues, including heartburn, nausea, and diarrhea.

The Impact of Digestive Issues on Addiction

For some, extreme digestive issues can lead to the desire to get treatment to make the pain stop. Others, however, might continue to use to drown out their physical pain rather than get help. Depending on the type of person and the current situation, digestive issues can either encourage treatment or prevent treatment. It is incredibly important that an individual struggling with drug abuse gets help to not only end his or her digestive issues, but also to help get other areas of life back on track.

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